Makinde Salutes Bode George at 80, Recounts Dramatic Rescue of His Governorship Dream.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has paid warm tribute to Chief Olabode George, describing the Atona Oodua of Yorubaland as a towering figure in Nigerian politics and a major influence in his rise to public office. Speaking during George’s 80th birthday celebration in Lagos, the governor recounted how the PDP chieftain played a decisive role in shaping his political journey.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Makinde recalled that in 2014, while preparing to publicly declare his ambition to run for the Oyo governorship under the PDP, powerful interests within the party attempted to frustrate his plans. He explained that despite securing approval to use the Eleyele Polo Ground in Ibadan for his declaration, political opposition led to the withdrawal of the permit on the eve of the event.

According to BushRadio, Makinde said he sought George’s intervention as pressure mounted, and the former military governor promptly reached out to the relevant authorities. By the following day, the approval was reinstated, allowing the declaration to go ahead as planned—a moment Makinde described as pivotal in the journey that eventually led him to the Oyo State Government House.

Expressing deep gratitude, the governor praised George’s steadfastness, noting that despite facing numerous political storms over the decades, he remains resilient and influential. Makinde urged attendees to draw inspiration from George’s life story, which he said reflects the belief that although life’s journey may be turbulent, divine assurance guarantees safe arrival at one’s destined end.

The event was attended by prominent figures, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed. Makinde concluded his tribute by wishing George continued good health and long life.